Spanish Empire

The Spanish Empire was one of the first global empires, reaching its height from the late 15th to the early 19th centuries. It originated with Spain's overseas explorations, notably Christopher Columbus's voyages, which led to the colonization of large parts of the Americas. At its peak, it included territories in Europe, the Americas, parts of Africa, and Asia. The empire was known for its vast wealth from resources like gold and silver, but it also faced challenges like wars, revolutions, and the decline of colonial power. Its legacy includes significant cultural influences and widespread Spanish language and traditions.